Di-substituted 1,4-piperidine esters and amides having 5-HT4 antagonistic activity

ABSTRACT

Pharmacologically active novel esters and amides of di-substituted 1,4 piperidine as 5-HT 4  antagonists of formula (I) ##STR1## wherein A, X, Y and R have the meanings specified in the description, and a process for their preparation, are disclosed.

CROSS REFERENCE

This is a S371 of PCT/EP96/00903 filed Mar. 3, 1996.

The present invention refers to novel pharmacologically active derivatives of di-substituted 1,4-piperidine, the processes for their preparation and the pharmaceutical compositions containing them.

The novel compounds, object of the present invention, have a high affinity and specificity for 5-HT₄ serotoninergic receptors. They are able to inhibit, either at central or peripheral level, those effects mediated by the activation of this receptor subtype. Therefore, the compounds, object of the present invention, may be defined novel antagonists "in vitro" and "in vivo" of 5-HT₄ receptors. 5-HT₄ receptors belong to the numerous family of serotoninergic receptors and they are among those more recently discovered, pharmacologically characterized and cloned. After the first identification in discrete areas of guinea-pig CNS [Dumuis et al.; Mol. Pharmacol. (1988), 34, 880; Bockaert et al.; Trends, Pharmacol. Sci. (1992) 13, 141] the 5-HT₄ serotoninergic receptors have been localized also in other districts, either central or peripheral (ileum, atrium, esophagus, colon, urinary bladder and adrenal glands) of different species, including humans. [Craig et al.; Brit. J. Pharmacol. (1989) 96, 246 P; Craig et al.; J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. (1990) 352, 1378; Kauman et al.; Brit. J. Pharmacol. (1989), 98, 664 P; Hoyer et al.; Pharmacological Reviews (1994), 46, 157]. The presence of these receptors in different organs and tissues, make it possible that compounds able to block the effects of their hyperstimulation, may be advantageously used in the treatment and in the prophylaxis of different pathological situations.

Thus for example, since the stimulation of 5-HT₄ atrial cardiac receptors, besides causing inotropic and chronotropic positive effects, is responsible for arrhythmias observed in some experimental conditions [Kauman et al.; Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch Pharmacol, (1994) 349, 331], antagonists to these receptors may be used in the specific treatment of cardiac rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation and other types of arrhythmias. In the gastro-intestinal tract since the 5-HT₄ receptors mediate the prokinetic and secretory action of serotonin [Kilbinger et al; Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch. Pharmacol. (1992) 345, 270; Burleigh; Eur. J. Pharmacol. (1991), 202, 277], it can be suggested the use of 5-HT₄ antagonists in the treatment of disorders connected to an altered intestinal motility or secretion such as I.B.S. (irritable bowel syndrome), more particularly in those forms of I.B.S. combined to diarrhoic states. The presence of 5-HT₄ receptors in central nervous system either in rat or in humans is not ubiquitary but limited to defined areas [Waeber et al.; Neuro Report (1993), 4, 1239; Monferini et al.; Life Sci. (1993), 52, 61] such as hippocampus, frontal cortex, basal ganglia and limbic structures. Compounds able to control an altered stimulation of the 5-HT₄ receptors in central nervous system may therefore be used in the psychiatric and neurological fields such as the therapeutical treatment of anxiety, depression, psychosis, cognitive disorders, motility disorders and migraine. Moreover, since it has been described [Panocka et al.; Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. (1995) 52, 255] that 5-HT₄ receptors partially mediate the effect of 5-HT in controlling the ethanol intake, 5-HT₄ antagonists might be useful in the treatment of alcohol abuse. 5-HT₄ receptors are also involved in the control of other functions of the genitourinary and adrenal glands system, where they seem to mediate the release of steroidal hormones [Lefebre et al.; Neuroscience, (1992), 47, 999]. Consequently, pathologies characterized by an altered secretion of hormones or urinary incontinence might be also treated with compounds able to block the S-HT₄ receptors.

WO 94/08965 describes N-alkylpiperidinyl-4-methyl carboxylic esters/amides of condensed ring systems having 5-HT₄ antagonist activity. WO 93/18027 describes 5-HT₄ receptor antagonists derived from a heterocyclic nucleus including a benzimidazolone groupment, which is in our compounds only a generic substituent. EP 501.322 describes 3-piperidinylmethylcarboxylate substituted indoles which are antagonists of 5-hydroxytriptamine (5-HT). J. Med. Chem., 1993, 36, 4121-4123 describes (1-butyl-4-piperidinyl)methyl 8-amino-7-chloro-1,4-benzodioxane-5-carboxylate which is a quartenary salt.

It has now been found, and this is the object of the present invention, a novel class of compounds which possess a high affinity and selectivi-ty for the 5-HT₄ receptor and can be therefore used in the treatment of the disorders of cardiac rhythm, and intestinal motility such as I.B.S., anxiety, depression, psychoses, cognitive disorders, motility disorders, alcohol abuse and migraine.

The present invention relates to compounds of general formula (I) ##STR2## wherein A represents a group selected from

substituted phenyl of structure ##STR3## in which R₁ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy and R₂ is halogen; bi- or tricyclic heterocycle selected from ##STR4## in which R₃ is hydrogen or halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkyl, R₅ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is hydrogen or a linear or branched C₁₋ ₆ alkyl;

X represents oxygen or NH;

Y represents a group of formula --OR₇ or NHR₇, wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkyl;

R represents hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, benzyloxy, methylthiomethyl, 3-indolyl, methoxycarbonyl or carbamoyl;

and acid addition salts thereof with pharmacologically acceptable acids.

In the present specification, the term C₁₋₃ alkyl denotes a linear or branched chain such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl or i-propyl. The term halogen means fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine. Preferred halogens are fluorine, chlorine, bromine, particularly fluorine, chlorine. The term C₁₋₃ alkoxy means methoxy, ethoxy or propoxy. When in the compounds of formula (I) R₆ represents a linear or branched C₁₆ alkyl, it may be, for example, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, i-propyl, butyl, pentyl, hexyl, 2-methylpentyl and the like. When R₇ represents aryl, it may be, for example, phenyl. When R₇ represents aralkyl, it may be, for example, benzyl.

The compounds of general formula (I) have one asymmetric carbon atom and therefore can exist as optically active enantiomers having R or S configuration, or as racemic mixture. Even though in the examples the compounds are described and identified as single R or S enantiomers, it is to be understood that the invention relates to all the optical isomers as well as the racemic mixtures thereof.

The compounds of general formula I may be, for example, prepared by the following processes which are a further object of the present invention.

The compounds of formula (I), where X represents oxygen and A, R and Y are as hereinbefore defined, can be prepared according to the scheme 1, hereinafter reported. ##STR5##

The intermediate amines of formula (VI), where A is as above defined and R represents hydrogen, phenyl, methylthiomethyl and 3-indolyl, are reacted with isocyanates of formula R₇ NCO or with chloroformates of formula R₇ O COCl where R₇ is as above defined. The reaction for the preparation of the ureas is carried out in a solvent selected from toluene, tetrahydrofuran, ethanol, methanol, preferably ethanol, at a temperature ranging from 0° C. to the reflux temperature of the solvent, preferably at room temperature.

For the preparation of the carbamates the reaction is carried out in an inert solvent such as tetrahydrofuran, diethyl ether or chloroform, preferably tetrahydrofuran in the presence of an acid acceptor such as pyridine or triethylamine at a temperature ranging from 0° C. to the reflux temperature of the solvent, preferably at room temperature.

In the particular case, when R represents a hydroxy group, the compounds of formula (I) may be prepared from the same precursors of formula (VI), in which A is as above defined and R represents a precursor of the hydroxy functionality such as the benzyloxy group. In this case, the transformation into ureido or carbamoyl derivatives, carried out according to the above described procedures and methods, is followed by the deprotection of the protected hydroxy group. There are several known methods for the deprotection of 0-benzylalcohols (see example "Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis" of T. W. Greem P. G. M. Wutz John Wiley, 1991, page 10-142). Particularly advantageous are the reduction processes with hydrogen or with its precursors such as cyclohexene or ammonium formate in the presence of suitable catalysts, preferably Pd/C. In another particular case, when R represents a carbamoyl group, the compounds of formula (I) may be prepared from the same precursors (VI) in which A is as above defined and R represents a carbamoyl precursor group, such as alkoxycarbonyl, preferably methoxycarbonyl. In this case the transformation into urea and carbamate derivatives, performed according to the procedures already described, is followed by an ammonolysis process with gaseous ammonia, introduced in the reaction mixture containing a protic or aprotic polar solvent, preferably methanol or acetonitrile at a temperature ranging from 0° C. to 30° C.

The intermediates of formula (VI) may be prepared from the precursors of formula (V) where A and R are as above defined and Z represents a suitable amino-protecting group, such as t-butoxycarbonyl or benzyloxycarbonyl, according to the traditional deprotecting methods (for example "Protective Group in Organic Synthesis" of T. W. Green and P. G. M Wuts, Ed.

John Wiley, 1991; page 309-405) conveniently selected according to the protecting group itself and to the other functional groups present in the substrate. For instance, t-butoxycarbonyl group may be easily removed by reacting the compound with anhydrous gaseous hydrochloric acid, in the presence of an apolar inert solvent such as diethyl ether or ethyl acetate at a temperature between -10° C and room temperature, preferably about 0° C.

The compounds of formula (V) may be prepared from the precursors of formula (IV) in which A, R and Z are as above defined, by known selective reduction processes conveniently selected from those which possess an high reactivity towards the amido group to be reduced, coupled with an inactivity toward other functionalities present in these intermediates (IV), above all carboxylic esters and carbamates. Particularly advantageous is the method based on borane complex in tetrahydrofuran at a temperature ranging between room temperature and the reflux temperature of the solvent, preferably at 50° C.

The compounds of formula (IV) may be prepared by reacting esters of formula (II), in which A is as above defined, with acidic intermediates of formula (III) where R and Z are as above defined. The compounds of formula (III) are amino acids protected at the nitrogen atom and they are commercialy available in the D or L absolute configuration. The process is carried out in a polar or apolar solvent, preferably tetrahydrofuran, after the activation of the amino acid carboxylic group, for instance by means of 1,1-carbonyldiimidazole.

The compounds of formula (I) wherein X is oxygen, A represents benzimidazolone (d), in which R₆ is as above defined, or indole (c); where R₃, R₄, R₅ and Y are as above defined, are better specified in the formulae (Id) and (Ic) respectively, and may be prepared according to the scheme 2, hereinafter reported. ##STR6##

The intermediate amines of formula (XIII) in which R is hydrogen, phenyl, methylthiomethyl and 3-indolyl are converted into ureas or carbamates of formula (Id) by reaction with isocyanates R₇ NCO or chloroformates of formula R₇ O COCl according to the already described procedures. In the particular case, in which R₆ is different from hydrogen, the resulting compounds are further alkylated by means of an alkylating agent of formula R₆ Q, where Q represents a halogen atom, preferably chlorine or bromine, in the presence of an activating agent such as NaH, Na NH₂, KOH or NaOH, preferably NaH. The used solvent is generally an apolar or polar inert solvent, preferably tetrahydrofuran or dimethylformamide. The reaction temperature ranges from 10° C. to 80° C., preferably at room temperature. The intermediates of formula (XIII) may be prepared from the precursors of formula (XII), where R and Z are as above defined according to the traditional methods for deprotection of the amino functionality.

The compounds of formula (XII) may be obtained by cyclization of the compounds of formula (XI) in which R and Z are as already defined, by phosgene or its safer derivatives such as diphosgene or triphosgene, or carbonyl diimidazole in inert solvents such as tetrahydrofuran, ether, methylene chloride, preferably tetrahydrofuran. The reaction temperature may range from 0° C. to 60° C., preferably 40° C.

The compounds of formula (XI) may be prepared by reduction of nitro derivatives (X) where R and Z are as above defined, using suitable reagents and methods which do not affect the other functionalities present in the compounds and represented by Z and R. Particularly advantageous is the use of Sn Cl₂.2H₂ O, as reducing agent, in an alcoholic solvent, such as methanol or ethanol, optionally containing water, preferably EtOH 95%. The reaction temperature ranges from 40° C. to the reflux temperature of the solvent, preferably 70° C.

The compounds of formula (X) may be prepared by reacting an aminoalcohol of formula (IX), where R and Z are as above defined, with o-nitrophenyl isocyanate in an inert solvent such as tetrahydrofuran, dioxane and toluene, preferably tetrahydrofuran, at a temperature ranging from room temperature to the reflux temperature of the solvent, preferably at 60° C.

The compounds of formula (IX) may be prepared from a precursor alcohol of formula (VIII), where R and Z are as above defined, according to the already mentioned selective reduction processes which are highly specific for the amido group, for example the borane complex in tetrahydrofuran, as above described.

The compounds of formula (VIII) may be obtained by reacting 4-hydroxymethylpiperidine (VII) with the already mentioned amino acid with D or L configuration, conveniently protected at the nitrogen atom (III). This process is carried out in an apolar or polar solvent, preferably tetrahydrofuran, after a suitable activation of the carboxylic functionality of the amino acid, by means of 1,1-carbonyldiimidazole. According to a further option, when in the compounds of formula (I) X is still oxygen and A represents indole (c), where R₃, R₄ and R₅ are as above defined, they are better identified in the formula I (c) and may be prepared as specified in the scheme 2. The intermediates of formula (XIV), where R, ₃, R₄ and R₅ are as above defined, are transformed into the compounds (Ic) according to the previously described processes using isocyanates of formula R₇ NCO or chloroformates of formula R₇ OCOCl, wherein R₇ is as above defined.

The intermediate amines (XIV), in turn, are obtained from precursors (XV), where R₃, R₄, R₅, R and Z are as above defined according to the already described deprotecting procedures of the amino functionality.

The intermediates (XV) in which R₅ is C₁ -C₃ alkoxy may be prepared from precursors of formula (XVI) where R₃, R₄, R and Z have the above mentioned meanings, according to an alkoxylation process. At first, an oxidizing agent, such as N-chlorosuccinimide, in an inert halogenated solvent, such as methylene chloride or chloroform, activates the indolyl nucleus; then the process is completed by the use of a suitable alkylalcohol such methanol or ethanol. Both the process phases are carried out at a temperature ranging between 0° C. and 50° C., preferably at room temperature.

The compounds (XVI) may be obtained by reacting an indolcarboxylic acid of formula (XVII), where R₃ and R₄ are as above defined, with an aminoalcohol of formula (IX) where R and Z are as above described. The esterification process is carried out by activating the carboxylic function by the use of an anhydride, for example trifluoroacetic anhydride and methanesulfonic acid at a temperature lower than the room temperature, preferably between 0° and -5° C. The process is completed by adding the alcoholic component and increasing the in which R₅ is C₁ -C₃ alkoxy temperature until 50°-60° C. The used solvent is generally a halogenated solvent selected from chloroform and methylene chloride.

The compounds of formula (I), wherein X is NH and A, R and Y are as above defined, may be prepared with synthetic steps, as reported in the scheme 3. ##STR7##

The intermediate amines of formula (XVIII) where A is as above defined and R represents hydrogen, phenyl, methylthiomethyl and indolyl are reacted with isocyanates of formula R₇ NCO or with chloroformates R₇ OCOCl where R₇ is as above defined. The used procedures are similar to those previously described.

In a particular case, when R represents a hydroxy group, the compounds of formula (I) may be prepared from the same precursors of formula (XVIII), where A is as above defined and R represents a precursor of a hydroxyl group such as benzyloxy group. In this case the transformation into urea or carbamate derivatives, performed as previously described, is followed by the deprotection of the hydroxy functionality, as above specified. In another particular case, when R represents a carbamoyl group, the compounds of formula (I) may be prepared from the same precursors of formula (XVIII), in which A is as above defined and R represents a precursor of a carbamoyl group, such as alkoxycarbonyl, preferably methoxycarbonyl. The conversion into urea or carbamate derivatives is followed by an amonolysis process, as already described.

The intermediates of formula (XVIII) may be prepared from the precursors of formula (XIX) where A and R are as above defined and Z represents a suitable amino-protecting group, such as t-butoxycarbonyl or benzyloxycarbonyl, according to the already described deprotection methods.

The compounds of formula (XIX) may be prepared by reacting amines of formula (XX), where R and Z are as above defined, with compounds of formula (XXI), where W is a suitable leaving group such as chlorine or imidazole. The process is performed in an inert solvent such as diethyl ether, tetrahydrofuran, methylene chloride, chloroform, toluene, preferably tetrahydrofuran in the presence of an organic base such as triethylamine, 1,8-diazabicyclo [5.4.0]-7-undecene (DBU) at a temperature ranging from 10° C. and the reflux temperature of the solvent, preferably 40° C.

The intermediates of formula (XXI), in turn, may be obtained from commercially available intermediates or prepared according to processes known in literature, by reaction with phosgene or better with their derivatives such as trichloromethyl chloroformates or bis (trichloromethyl) carbonate in an inert solvent such as toluene or tetrahydrofuran at a temperature ranging from 0° to 70° C.

The compounds of formula (XX) may be obtained from the intermediates of formula (XXII), where R and Z are as above defined, according to the above described selective reduction processes such as the use of borane complex in tetrahydrofuran. In the particular case, in which in the compounds of formula (XX) R is a carbamoyl group and Z is as above defined, they may be obtained from the same compounds of formula (XXII) where Z is as above defined and R represents an alkoxycarbonyl group such as methoxycarbonyl. The reduction process is followed by an amonolysis reaction, carried out using reagents and procedures already described.

The intermediates of formula (XXII) are prepared by reacting isonipecotamide (XXIII) with the intermediates of formula (III) where Z and R are as above defined. These compounds (III) are amino acids in which the amino function is protected by a Z group and they are commercially available in the D o L configuration. The process is performed in an apolar or polar inert solvent, preferably tetrahydrofuran, in the presence of a suitable activating reagent of the carboxylic function of the amino acids, such as 1,1-carbonyldiimidazole. Alternatively, the compounds of formula (I), included in the scheme 3, may be prepared by reacting amines of formula (XXIV), where R and Y are as already described, with the intermediates (XXI) in which A and W have the above mentioned meanings. The reaction is carried out in an inert solvent such as diethyl ether, tetrahydrofuran, methylene chloride, chloroform, toluene, preferably tetrahydrofuran, in the presence of an organic base such as triethylamine or DBU at a temperature ranging from 10° C. to the reflux temperature of the solvent, preferably 40° C. The intermediates (XXIV) are prepared from amides of formula (XXV), where R and Y have the described meaning, according to the already mentioned selective reduction processes, for example with the use of borane complex in tetrahydrofuran. The compounds of formula (XXV) may be prepared from the amines (XXVI), where R has the above mentioned meaning according to the previous described reactions with isocyanates or chloroformates of formula R₇ NCO or R₇ OCOCl respectively. Finally, the intermediates (XXVI) may be prepared by the precursors of formula XXII, in which Z and R have the above mentioned meaning, according to a suitable deprotection process of the amino function, as already specified.

The compounds of formula (I), object of the present invention, have, as above mentioned, an asymmetric carbon atom. Therefore, they may exist as two single optically active enantiomers having opposed configurations. The two enantiomeric forms of the final compounds (I) may be obtained starting from the precursor intermediates of formula (III) already possessing a predefined absolute R or S configuration and according to processes as described in the schemes 1, 2 and 3 according to procedure able to maintain the configuration at the chiral center. Alternatively, the same enantiomeric final forms (I) may be obtained according to conventional and well known methods which foresee the separation of the antipode forms, directly on the final compounds or on synthetic suitable intermediates having a basic functionality. These methods for the separation of the racemic mixture into the single enantiomers consist of single or repeated recrystallizations of the salts obtained from the final compounds or from basic intermediates with an optically active acid, such as d-camphorsulfonic, d- or 1-tartaric and d- or 1- O,O-ditoluoyl-tartaric acid. The utilized solvents are generally alcoholic solvents containing varying amounts of water.

The compounds of general formula (I), prepared according to the above described methods, may optionally be converted into the corresponding non-toxic, physiologically acceptable inorganic or organic acid addition salts, for example by conventional methods such as by reacting the compounds as bases, optionally dissolved in a suitable solvent with a solution of the corresponding acid in a suitable solvent. Examples of non-toxic physiologically acceptable acid addition salts are those formed with hydrobromic, hydrochloric, nitric, sulfuric, maleic, fumaric, citric, tartaric, methanesulphonic, p-toluenesulphonic, acetic, benzoic, succinic, gluconic, lactic, glycine, malic, muconic, glutamic, isethionic, phosphric, ascorbic or sulphamic acid. Particularly preferred acids are hydrochloric, hydrobromic, maleic, fumaric and methanesulphonic acids.

Preferred compounds according to the present invention, due to their better activity as 5-HT₄ receptor antagonists, are those compounds of general formula (I), wherein A is the group (c) or (d), R₃ is halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkyl, R₅ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is a linear or branched C₁₋₆ alkyl, X is oxygen or NH, Y is OR₇ wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkyl, R is hydrogen, hydroxy, benzyloxy or carbamoyl.

Pharmacology

The affinity of the compounds of formula (I) for 5-HT₄ serotoninergic receptors was tested "in vitro" by receptor binding studies in the pig striatum, a tissue particularly rich in 5-HT₄ receptors.

Receptor binding studies

Receptor binding studies on 5-HT₄ receptor were carried out to determine the affinity of the test compounds.

Tissue preparation

Pig striatum was removed, cleaned and homogenized (w/v 1:70) with an Ultra-Turrax at maximal speed for 30 s, followed by use of a Potter-Elvehjem homogenizer (30 strokes) in 50 mM Hepes buffer, pH 7.4 and filtered through two layers of cheese-cloth.

Binding experiments

Binding curves for the different compounds were derived indirectly from competition experiments against 0.1 nM [³ H]-GR 113808.

A 1 ml aliquot of homogenate was incubated for 30 min at 37° C. in the presence of the marker ligand and different concentrations of the cold ligands.

The incubation was stopped by rapid filtration using an automatic apparatus (1H -110 Inotech). The filters (Inotech glass fibre filter, type G7) were then transferred to scintillation vials containing 4 ml of Filter Count (Packard) and the radioactivity present was counted by liquid scintillation spectrometry (Kontron Betamat V). Assays were carried out in triplicated and non specific binding was defined as the radioactivity bound or entrapped in the filter when the incubation medium contained 10 μM of BIMU 0001 (3-ethyl-2,3-dihydro-2-oxo-benzimidazole-1(3a-tropyl carboxamide). Non specific binding was about 10-15%. The inhibition constant (Ki) was calculated after correction for the radioligand occupancy shift according to the equation of Cheng and Prusoff (Biochem. Pharmacol. 22, 3099, 1973).

The results of receptor binding affinity for some compounds are reported in the following Table.

                  TABLE                                                            ______________________________________                                         Affinity for the 5-HT.sub.4 receptor                                             (pig striatum)                                                                        Compound  Ki × 10.sup.9 M                                       ______________________________________                                                21      1.3                                                               23 0.86                                                                        30 4.3                                                                         12 2.8                                                                         13 4.3                                                                         10 2.1                                                                         1 4.6                                                                          9 4.3                                                                          11 1.1                                                                         35 1.6                                                                         36 3.0                                                                         37 0.37                                                                        26 1.0                                                                         34 3.2                                                                         16 2.9                                                                         17 0.16                                                                        19 0.25                                                                      ______________________________________                                    

The ability of the compounds, herein described, to block 5-HT₄ receptors was assessed "in vitro" by testing their activity in antagonizing the serotonin-induced relaxation of the tunica muscularis mucosa of rat esophagus, previously contracted by carbachol. The experiment was performed according to the described procedure [Baxter et al.; Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch. Pharmacol. (1991), 343, 439].

All compounds, herein described, are able to antagonize 5-HT₄ receptors with a good to high potency, showing pA₂ values generally higher, and in some cases much higher, than 7.

According to a further object of the present invention, there are provided pharmaceutical compositions for use according to the present invention comprising, as active ingredient, an effective amount of a compound of general formula (I) or physiologically acceptable acid addition salts in combination with one or more pharmaceutical carriers diluents or excipients.

The compositions may be formulated in a conventional manner, for the oral, parenteral, rectal or transdermal administration or in a form suitable for administration by inhalation or insufflation (either through the mouth or the nose).

For the oral administration, the pharmaceutical compositions may be, for example, in the form of tablets (including sustained release tablets), or capsules prepared in a conventional manner with pharmaceutically acceptable excipients such as corn starch, polyvinylpyrrolidone, lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, talc, potato starch, sodium lauryl sulphate. Liquid preparations for the oral administration may be, for example, in the form of solutions, syrups or suspensions which may be prepared in conventional manner with pharmaceutically acceptable additives such as sorbitol syrup, cellulose derivatives, lecithin, almond oil, methyl p-hydroxybenzoate, and if desired, buffer salts, flavouring, colouring and sweetening agents. Compounds of formula (I) may be formulated for the parenteral administration by injection, e.g. by bolus injection or continuous infusion. Compositions for injection may be presented in unit dosage form, e.g. in ampoules or in multi-dose containers. The compositions may be in the form of suspensions, solutions or emulsions in oily or aqueous vehicles. Alternatively, the active ingredient may be in powder form for constitution with a suitable vehicle, e.g. sterile apyrogenic water, before use.

For the rectal administration the pharmaceutical compositions may be, for example, in the form of suppositories containing conventional suppository bases, such as cocoa butter or other glycerides.

Besides the above described compositions, the compounds of formula (I) may also be formulated as a depot composition. Such long acting compositions may be administered by implantation (for example subcutaneously, transcutaneously or intramuscularly) or by intramuscular injection. Thus, these preparations may be, for example, formulated with suitable polymeric or hydrophobic materials or ion exchange resins.

In order to increase the solubility of the compounds of general formula (I) or their physiological acceptable salts, surfactants, non-ionic surfactants such as PEG 400, cyclodextrins, metastable polymorphs, inert absorbents such as bentonite may be incorporated. Furthermore, techniques such as preparation of, for example, eutectic mixtures and/or solid dispersions using mannitol, sorbitol, saccharose, succinic acid, or physical modified forms using water soluble polymers, PVP, PEG 4000-20000, may be employed.

The compositions are advantageously formulated in dosage unit: each dosage unit being adapted to supply a single dose of the active ingredient. Each dosage unit may conveniently contain 0.1 mg to 100 mg, preferably 1 mg to 20 mg of the active ingredient.

The following examples, including also the descriptions of the preparation of intermediates, illustrate some of the novel compounds according to the present invention; these examples are not to be considered in any way limitative of the scope of the invention itself.

Description 1

4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid (piperidin-4-yl)methyl ester

a) 1,1-carbonyldiimidazole (0.8 g., 0.005 mol) was added to a solution of 4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid (1 g, 5 mmol) in THF (20 ml) and the reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for about 30 minutes. The solvent was evaporated and the residue was taken up in H₂ O and extracted into ethyl acetate (3×20 ml). The organic phases were collected, dried and evaporated to dryness. The obtained solid residue was dissolved in THF (10 ml) and dropped into a solution of 1-benzylpiperidin-4-yl-methanol [J. Med. Chem. (1992), 35, 4344], (1 g, 5 mmol) in THF (10 ml) and butyllithium (1.6 M in hexane; 3 ml), maintained at 0° C. The reaction mixture was further stirred at room temperature for 1 hour. The solvent was evaporated and the residue was taken up into H₂ O and extracted into ethyl acetate. The organic extracts were dried and evaporated to give the desired product as a pale yellow oil, (1.63 g).

b) a-chloroethylchloroformate (0.3 ml, 2.8 mmol) was dropped into a mixture of 4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid (1-benzyl-piperidin-4-yl) methyl ester, (1 g., 2.6 mmol) and proton sponge (0.27 g., 1.3 mmol) in 1,2 -dichloroethane (20 ml), maintained at 0° C. The mixture was further stirred at room temperature overnight. The reaction mixture was then poured into aqueous solution of 5% HCl and the organic layer, which separated, was washed with H₂ O dried and evaporated to dryness. The residue was taken up into CH₃ OH (20 ml) and heated at reflux temperature for 30 minutes. The solvent was evaporated to give the desired compound as hydrochloride salt, white solid (0.36 g.) M.p. 250-251° C.

According to the above described procedure the following product was prepared:

1-Methyl-indol-carboxylic acid (piperidin-4-yl) ester M.p. 227-239° C. (as hydrochloride salt).

Description 2

Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid (piperidin-4-yl)methyl ester

a) Pyridine (7.2 ml; 0.090 mol) containing activated carbon (1.5 g.) was added to a solution of carbazole (10 g., 0.060 mol) in anhydrous toluene. After heating at 100° C., diphosgene (5.6 ml, 0.046 mol) was dropped in. The reaction mixture was stirred at 100° C. for 18 hours. The obtained pyridine salts were filtered off and the remaining solution was evaporated to dryness. 13 g. of a reddish-brown solid were obtained. M.p. 95-96° C.

b) Carbazole-9-carbonyl chloride (26 g., 0.108 mol) was added portionwise to a solution, obtained by dissolving 1-benzylpiperidin-4-yl-methanol (22.2 g., 0.108 mol) in anhydrous CH₂ Cl₂ (700 ml), under stirring at room temperature for 48 hours. After this period, the solution was evaporated to dryness and the obtained raw solid was purified by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH=96/4). 30 g of a pink solid were obtained. M.p. 196-199° C. (as hydrochloride salt).

c) 10% Pd/C (15 g.) and, ammonium formate (10.8 g. 0.175 mol) were simultaneously added to a solution, obtained by dissolving carbazole-9-carboxylic acid (1-benzyl-piperidin-4-yl) methyl ester (15 g., 0.035 mol) in CH₃ OH (450 ml). The reaction mixture was refluxed for 40 minutes; the heating was interrupted and the reaction mixture was stirred while cooling to room temperature. The catalyst was filtered and the clear and colourless solution was evaporated to dryness. 9 g. of white solid were obtained. M.p. 240° C. dec. (hydrochloride salt).

Description 3

S(-)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxypropionyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

1,1-Carbonyldimidazole (5.3 g., 0.033 mol) was added to a solution of L--O--Bz serine N-t-Boc (9.7 g., 0.033 moli) in THF (100 ml) and the mixture was stirred at room temperature for 40 minutes. A solution of 4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid (piperidin-4-yl) methyl ester (9.7 g., 0.033 mol) in THF (50 ml) was dropped and the reaction mixture was stirred overnight at room temperature. The solvent was evaporated to dryness and the residue was taken up in H₂ O and extracted into ethyl acetate. The organic extracts were collected, dried and evaporated to dryness. The obtained residue was purified by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: n-hexane/ethylacetate=4/6) to give the desired product as a pale yellow solid (10.47 g). [a]²⁰ _(D=) -0.97° (c=1% CH₃ OH). According to the above described procedure the following products may be prepared: S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.48° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid {1-[2-tert-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-propionyl]piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+21.28° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-tert-butoxycarbonyl-amino-4-methylthio-butiryl)piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-14.13° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-1-Methyl-1-H-indol-3yl-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propionyl)piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.16° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxy-carbonyl-amino-propionyl) piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+12.16° (c=1% CH₃ COOH) M.p. 70° C. dec. S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+15.45° (c=1% CH₃ COOH) M.p. 75° C. S(-)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-tert-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-benzyloxy-propionyl)piperidin-4-yl3methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-2.13° (c=1% CH₃ OH) M.p. 67-69° C. S(-)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-(tert-butoxy-carbonyl-amino-3-methoxycarbonyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-23.28° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 76-78° C. S(+)-1-Methyl-1-indol-3-yl-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propionyl)piperidin-4-yl]-methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.16° (c=1% CH₃ OH).

Description 4

S(-)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxy-carbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl] methyl ester

S(+)-carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxy-carbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl] methyl ester (4 g., 7 mmol) dissolved in anhydrous THF (60 ml) was dropped to a 1M solution of borane complex (33 ml, 0.033 mol) in anhydrous THF (60 ml) heated at mild reflux. The solution was refluxed under stirring for 8 hours and then cooled at room temperature. The solvent was evaporated and the raw residue was purified by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH=95/5) to give a white solid (1.5 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =-3.36° (c=1% CH₃ COOH). M.p. 200° C. dec. Analogously the following compounds may be prepared: S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+13.16° (c=1% CH₃ COOH) R(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-t-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+9.58° (c=1% CH₃ COOH). M.p. 170-172° C. (hydrochloride salt) S(-)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid (1-(2-t-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-methoxycarbonyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester thick oil; [a]²⁰ _(D) =2.8° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-t-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-4.5° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-tert-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)propyl]piperidin-4-yl}methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-2.67° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-tert-butoxycarbonyl-amino-4-methylthio-butyl)piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+9.94° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) S(+)-1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl, ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+0.25° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-tert-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propyl)piperidin-4-yl)methyl, ester. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+6.2° (c=1% CH₃ OH)

Description 5

S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid {1-[2-amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester

Anhydrous gaseous HCl was bubbled for 30 minutes into a solution of S(-)-4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid {1-[2-tert-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)propyl]-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester (2 g, 3.5 mmol) in ethyl acetate (30 ml) cooled at 0° C. The solvent was evaporated obtaining a solid residue which, after crystallization with diethyl ether, gave the desired product as hydrochloride salt, white solid (1.8 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =+7.4° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). According to the above described procedure the following products may be prepared: S-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl)methyl ester [a]20_(D) =+7.3° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid (1-(2-amino-3-phenyl-propyl)piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-5.5° (c=1% CH₃ OH) R(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester, [a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.64° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-3-methoxycarbonyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+2.63° (c=0.5% CH₃ OH) R(+)-5-Fluoro-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.4° (c 1% CH₃ OH) M.p. 150° C. (from ethyl acetate) R(+)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.55° (c=1% CH₃ OH as hydrochloride salt) M.p. 125-130° C. dec (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether)

Description 6

S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl)methyl ester

10% Pd/C (0.82 g.) and ammonium formate (0.48 g, 7.65 mmol) was simultaneously added to a solution obtained by dissolving S(+)-carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-carbobenzyloxyamino-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester (0.82 g., 1.53 mmol) in CH₃ OH (35 ml). The reaction mixture was refluxed for 40 minutes; the heating was interrupted and it was further stirred while cooling to room temperature. The catalyst was filtered and the clear and colourless solution was evaporated to dryness. 9.45 g. of white solid were obtained. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+26° (c=1% CH₃ OH as hydrochloride salt) M.p. 188-190° C. dec (as hydrochloride salt). Analogously the following compound was prepared: S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-3-phenyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl] methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+2.08° (c=1% CH₃ COOH)

Description 7

S(+)-1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-3-phenyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

A suspension of S(+)-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-CBZ-amino-3-phenyl-3-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester (3.3 g., 6.11 mmol) and 10% Pd/C (0.33 g.) in absolute CH₃ CH₂ OH (35 ml) and diethyl ether containing 20% of HCl (1.1 ml) was stirred overnight in the presence of H₂ at room temperature and pressure. The catalyst was filtered and the solution was evaporated to dryness. The residue was crystallized from acetone to give the product as hydrochloride salt 2.5 g., [a]²⁰ _(D) =+30.1° (c=1% CH₃ OH) M.p. 212-215° C. dec.

EXAMPLE 1 S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid {1-[3-benzyloxy-2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester

Phenylisocyanate (0.35 g., 3.2 mmol) was dropped into a solution of S-4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-2-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester (1.5 g., 3.2 mmol) in THF (20 ml) cooled at 0° C. and the reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30 minutes. The solvent was evaporated to dryness to give a raw product which, after chromatography (silica gel, eluent: EtAc/CH₃ OH=98/2), gave the desired product as white foamy solid (1.6 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =+5.59° (c=1% CH₃ OH). According to the above described procedure the following products may be prepared: S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid (1-[3-benzyloxy-2-(3-ethyl-ureido)propyl]piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+5.08° (c=1% CH₃ OH). R(+)-5-Fluoro-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid {1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-3-benzyloxypropyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+14.7° (c=1% CH₃ OH). R(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid {1-[3-benzyloxy-2-(3-ethyl-ureido-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+11.88° (c=1% CH₃ OH). S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid {1-[3-methoxycarbonyl-2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =+10.9° (c=1% CH₃ OH). S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid {1-[2-(3-ethyl-ureido)-3-(1H-indol-3-yl) propyl] piperidin-4-yl} methyl, ester.

(Compound 1)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+13.25° (c=1% CH₃ OH) M.p.=143°-145° C. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=543 m/e (M+H) Analysis: C₂₈ H₃₇ Cl₂ N₅ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    57.19        6.46   12.00                                             Calc. % 58.13 6.45 12.11                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(-)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid {1-[4-methylthio-2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-butyl]piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester.

(Compound 2)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-0.8° (c=1% CH₃ OH) M.p.=121°-123° C. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S.=536 m/e [M+H]Analysis: C₂₆ H₃₆ Cl₂ N₄ O₄ S

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    53.97        6.34   9.50                                              Calc. % 54.64 6.35 9.80                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid {1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester

(Compound 3)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.74° (c=1% CH₃ COOH) M.p.=188°-190° C. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=485 m/e [M+H]Analysis: C₂ H₃₃ Cl N₄ O₃

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    66.18        6.20   10.38                                             Calc. % 66.85 6.38 10.75                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid {1-[2-(3-ethyl-ureido)-phenylpropyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester

(Compound 4)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+0.76° (c=1% CH₃ COOH) M.p.=95° C. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=513 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₃₁ H₃₇ Cl N₄ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    68.00        6.82   10.40                                             Calc. % 67.81 6.79 10.20                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-1-Methyl-1H-indol-carboxylic acid {1-[2-(3-ethyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester

(Compound 5)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+11.02° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p.=200-205° C. dec (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=477 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₈ H₃₇ Cl N₄ O₃

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    65.50        7.32   10.95                                             Calc. % 65.55 7.27 10.92                                                     ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE 2 R(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

A solution, obtained by dissolving S(+)-carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl)methyl ester (1 g., 1.84 mmol) in CH₂ Cl₂ (30 ml) was cooled at 0° C. and then ethyl chloroformate (0.350 ml, 3.69 mmol) was dropped in. The reaction mixture was stirred under cooling for 15 minutes and then reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for 6 hours. The solution was evaporated to dryness and the raw product was purified by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CHCl₃ /CH₃ OH=98/2). 400 mg of semisolid product were obtained. The corresponding hydrochloride salt was obtained by bubbling gaseous HCl into a solution of the free base in AcOEt. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+9.20 (c=1% CH₃ OH).

Analogously the following products may be prepared: R(+)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxy carbonylamino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl] methyl ester. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.20 (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-methoxycarbonyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester. M.p.=85° C. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-0.55 (c=1% CH₃ OH) R(+)-5-Fluoro-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester. (a]²⁰ _(D) =+6.90° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-5-Fluoro-1-H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-7.02° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino)-3-phenyl-propyl)piperidin-4-yl] methyl ester.

(Compound 6)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+9.31° (c=1% CH₃ COOH) M.p.=118° C dec. (as tartrate salt, from ethylacetate); M.S. (C.I)=514 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₃₅ H₄₁ N₃ O₁₀

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    62.92        6.33   6.13                                              Calc. % 63.34 6.23 6.33                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino)-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

(Compound 7)

[a]²⁰ _(D) +13.68° (c=1% CH₃ COOH) M.p.=196-198° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from ethyl acetate); M.S. (C.I.)=438 m/e [M+H]Analysis: C₂₅ H₃₂ Cl N₃ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    63.30        6.81   8.81                                              Calc. % 63.35 6.81 8.87                                                      ______________________________________                                    

ethoxycarbonyl-amino)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester.

(Compound 8)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.21° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p.=200-204° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether); M.S. (C.I.)=478 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₈ H₃₆ Cl N₃ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    65.34        7.08   8.12                                              Calc. % 65.42 7.06 8.17                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester.

(Compound 9)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.98° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p.=151-153° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether); M.S. (C.I.)=489 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₂ H₃₅ Cl₂ N₃ O₅ S

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    49.81        6.79   7.85                                              Calc. % 50.38 6.73 8.01                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid {1-[2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-propyl]piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester.

(Compound 10)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+0.58° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p.=191-193° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether); M.S. (C.I.)=606 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₃₃ H₃₈ Cl₂ N₄ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    61.03        5.80   8.62                                              Calc. % 61.78 5.97 8.73                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

(Compound 11)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.57° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p.=165-167° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt as diethyl ether); M.S. (C.I.)=567 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₃₁ H₃₇ Cl₂ N₃ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    60.85        6.14   6.86                                              Calc. % 61.79 6.19 6.97                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(-)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1-H-indole-3-carboxylic acid 1 [(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl ester

(Compound 40)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-1.2 (C=1% CH ₃ 0H). M.p. 155-160° C. dec., as fumarate salt. M.S. (C.I.)=574 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₃₃ H₃₆ F N₃ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    63.90        5.86   6.12                                              Calc. % 64.43 5.85 6.09                                                      ______________________________________                                    

R(+)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid-1-[(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl ester

(Compound 41)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.16 (C=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 154-158° C. dec., as fumarate salt. M.S. (C.I.)=574 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₃₃ H₃₆ F N₃ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    64.30        5.90   6.05                                              Calc. % 64.43 5.85 6.09                                                      ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE 3 R(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

(Compound 12)

10% Pd/C (0.76 g.) and ammonium formate (400 mg., 6.5 mmol) were added simoultaneously to a solution obtained by dissolving S(+)-carbazole-9-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester (0.76 g., 1.3 mmol) in CH₃ OH (30 ml). The reaction mixture was refluxed for 40 minutes; the heating was interrupted and it was stirred while cooling at room temperature. The catalyst was filtered and the clear and colourless solution was evaporated to dryness. 330 mg of white solid were obtained. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.04° (c=1% CH₃ OH) M.p.=190° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether); M.S. (C.I.)=454 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₅ H₃₂ Cl N₃ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                  C          H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %    60.70        6.52   8.41                                              Calc. % 60.28 6.58 8.58                                                      ______________________________________                                    

Analogously the following compound was prepared: R(+)-Carbazole-9-carboxylic acid {1-[2-(3-ethyl-ureido)-3-hydroxy-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester

Compound 13)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+10.27° (c=1% CH₃ H, as hydrochloride) M.p.=200° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=453 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₅ H₃₃ Cl N₄ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   61.05         6.75   11.16                                             Calc. % 61.40 6.8 11.46                                                      ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE 4 R(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-3-methoxybenzoic acid {1-[3-hydroxy-2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester

(Compound 14)

Into a solution of S(+)-4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid {1-[3-benzyloxy-2-(3-phenyl-ureido)propyl]piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester (1.5 g., 2.5 mmol) in CH₃ OH (20 ml) was introduced gaseous HCl in CH₃ CH₂ OH until an acidic pH was obtained and the resulting reaction mixture was hydrogenated at room temperature and pressure in the presente of 5% Pd/C (g. 0.1) for 20 hours. The catalyst was filtered and the solvent was evaporated to dryness to obtain a raw product which, after chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH/NH₄ OH=93/7/0.7) gave the desired compound as a white foamy solid (0.83 g.). The corresponding hydrochloride salt may be obtained by treating a solution of the compound in diethyl ether with gaseous HCl.

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+5.64° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrocloride salt) M.p.=138-140° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethy ether) M.S. (C.I.)=492 m/e [H+H] Analysis: C₂₄ H₃₂ Cl₂ N₄ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   53.31         6.37   10.42                                             Calc. % 54.65 6.12 10.62                                                     ______________________________________                                    

According to the above described procedure the following compounds were obtained: R(+)-4-Amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid {1-[2-(3-ethyl-ureido)-3-hydroxy-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester.

(Compound 15)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+11.19° (c 1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p.=60-70° C. dec. (liophilized hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.)=443 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₀ H₃₂ Cl₂ N₄ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   50.00         6.93   11.50                                             Calc. % 50.11 6.73 11.69                                                     ______________________________________                                    

R(+)-5-Fluoro-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid {1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-3-hydroxy-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl} methyl ester.

(Compound 16)

[a]²⁰ =+6.24° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p.=210° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=469 m/e ([M+H] Analysis: C₂₅ H₃₀ FCl N₄ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   59.89         6.28   10.60                                             Calc. % 59.46 5.99 11.09                                                     ______________________________________                                    

R(+)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester.

(Compound 17)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.80° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.p. 120-130° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=514 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₇ H₃₃ FCl N₃ O₆

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   59.12         6.10   7.58                                              Calc. % 58.96 6.05 7.64                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(-)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester.

(Compound 18)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =3.95° (c 1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p=124-132° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=514 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₇ H₃₃ FCl N₃ O₆

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   58.70         6.11   7.60                                              Calc. % 58.96 6.05 7.64                                                      ______________________________________                                    

R(+)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-hydroxy-propyl)piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester.

(Comnound 19)

[a]²⁰ _(D) +6.60° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p.=110-120° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether). M.S. (C.I.) 452 m/e [M+H] Analiyis: C₂₂ H₃₁ FCl N₃ O₆

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   54.10         6.43   8.58                                              Calc. % 54.15 6.40 8.61                                                      ______________________________________                                    

S(-)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonyl-amino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester.

(Compound 20)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =6.43° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt) M.P. 109-114° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether). M.S. (C.I.)=452 m/e [M+H] Analysis: C₂₂ H₃₁ FCl N₃ O₆

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   53.99         6.45   8.55                                              Calc. % 54.15 6.40 8.61                                                      ______________________________________                                    

Description 8

S(-)-1° (4-Hydroxymethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-2-benzyloxycarbonylamino-propan-1-one

A solution of 4-piperidinemethanol (14.2 g., 0.123 mol) [J. Med Chem. (1991) 34, 1073] in anhydrous THF (140⁻ ml) was added to a solution of CBZ-L-alanine (25 g., 0.112 mol) and 1,1-carbonyldiimidazole (18.2 g., 0.112 mol) in anhydrous THF (250 ml), cooled at 5° C. The reaction mixture, after 4 hours under stirring at room temperature, was evaporated to dryness and the residue was dissolved into ethyl acetate. The organic solution was washed with 5% aqueous solution of hydrochloric acid, with water, with 17% aqueous solution of Na₂ CO₃ and evaporated to dryness. The residue was purified by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH=98/2) to give 24.8 g. of the desired product as a clear thick oil. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-9.2 (c=1% in CH₃ OH). Analogously the following products were prepared: R(+)-1-(4-Hydroxymethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-2-benzyloxycarbonylamino-propan-1-one [a]²⁰ _(D) =+9.32° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-1-(4-Hydroxymethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propan-1-one [a]²⁰ _(D) =-11.99° (c=1% CH₃ OH); M.p 75° C. (dec.)

Description 9

S(-)-1-[4-(2-Nitrophenyl-amino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propan-1-one

A solution of 2-nitrophenylisocyanate (9.2 g., 56.1 mmol) and S(-)-(4-hydroxymethyl-1-yl)-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-propan-1-one (18 g., 56.1 mmol) in THF (200 ml) was stirred at room temperature for 24 hours. The reaction mixture was evaporated to dryness and the desired product was obtained after chromatographic purification (silica gel; eluent: cyclohexane/ethyl acetate =50/50) as a low melting solid 17.5 g. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-2.47° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously was prepared: R(+)-1-[4-(2-Nitrophenylamino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-propan-1-one [a]²⁰ _(D) =+2.41 (c=1% CH₃ OH).

Description 10

S(+)-3-[4-(2-Nitrophenyl-amino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propane

A solution of S(-)-1-[4-(2-nitrophenyl-amino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propan-1-one (16.5 g., 34.1 mmol) and 1M borane complex in THF (102 ml) in tetrahydrofuran was refluxed for 4 hours. The reaction mixture was evaporated to dryness and partitioned between diethyl ether and an aqueous solution of 5% HCl. The aqueous solution was washed once more with ethyl acetate, made alkaline with aqueous solution of 17% Na₂ CO₃ and the solid which precipitated was extracted into ethyl acetate. The organic solution was crystallized from, dried and evaporated to dryness. The residue was crystallized from isopropyl ether to give the desired compound (12.3 g.) [a]²⁰ _(D) =9.47° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously was prepared: R(-)-3-[4-(2-Nitrophenyl-amino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propane [a]²⁰ _(D) =-9.51° (c=1% CH₃ OH).

Description 11

S(+)-3-[4-(2-Aminophenyl-amino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonylamino-propane

A solution of S(+)-3-[4-(2-nitrophenylamino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propane (10 g., 21.2 mmol) and SnCl₂.2H₂ O (24 g., 106.4 mmol) in 95% EtOH was refluxed for 30 minutes, then cooled and evaporated to dryness. The residue was taken up into water with diethyl ether. The aqueous phase was washed with ethyl acetate, made alkaline with aqueous solution of 17% Na₂ CO₃ and extracted into ethyl acetate. From the dried and evaporated solution the desired product was obtained as a white solid, pure enough to be used in the next step (7.7 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =-10.41° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously was prepared: R(-)-3-[4-(2-amino-phenylamino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propane [a]²⁰ _(D) =-10.32° (c=1% CH₃ OH).

EXAMPLE 5 S(+)-2-Oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino)-propyl-piperidin-4-yl]-methyl ester

(Compound 21)

A solution of S(-)-3-[4-(2-aminophenyl-amino-carbonyloxymethyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino-propane (6.7 g., 15.2 mmol) and diphosgene (3.6 g., 18.24 mmol) in CH₂ Cl₂ (100 ml) was stirred at room temperature for 20 hours. The solution was evaporated to dryness and the residue was partitioned between ethyl acetate and a 5% HCl aqueous solution. The acid solution was treated with ethyl acetate, made alkaline with 17% Na₂ CO₃ aqueous solution and extracted into CH₂ Cl₂. From these solutions, dried and evaporated to dryness, the desired product as raw material was obtained. It was purified by conversion into the corresponding hydrochloride salt and next recrystallization from acetone (3.4 g.) [a]²⁰ _(D) =+17.14° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 187-188° C dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.) =467 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₅ H₃₁ Cl N₄ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   59.07         6.21   10.99                                             Calc. % 59.70 6.25 11.14                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Analogously was prepared: R(-)-2-Oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonylamino)-propyl-piperidin-4-yl]-methyl ester

(Compound 22)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-17.20° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 185-188° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.) =467 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₅ H₃₁ Cl N₄ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   59.19         6.20   11.12                                             Calc. % 59.70 6.25 11.14                                                     ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE 6 S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino)-propyl-piperidin-4-yl]-methyl ester

(Compound 23)

Iodoethane (1.44 g., 9.2 mmol) was added at room temperature to a solution of S(+)-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxylic acid [1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino)-propyl-piperidin-4-yl]methyl (4.3 g., 9.2 mmol) and 80% NaH (0.28 g., 9.2 mmol) in anhydrous DMF (40 ml). The solution was stirred at room temperature for 8 hours, then it was poured into water (200 ml). The precipitate was extracted into ethyl acetate and the organic solution was extracted again with 5% HCl aqueous solution. The solution was washed more once with ethyl acetate, made alkaline with aqueous solution of 17% Na₂ CO₃ and extracted again with CH₂ Cl₂. From this solution, after drying and evaporation to dryness, the desired compound was obtained. It was purified by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH=95/5). (2 g.) [a]²⁰ _(D) =+17.33° (c=1% in CH₃ OH). M.p. 185° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S.(C.I.) =495 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₇ H₃₅ Cl N₄ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   60.59         6.68   10.45                                             Calc. % 61.07 6.64 10.55                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Analogously was prepared: R(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxylic acid-[1-(2-benzyloxycarbonyl-amino)-propyl-piperidin-4-yl]-methyl ester

(Compound 24)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-17.45° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 184-187° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.) =495 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₇ H₃₅ Cl N₄ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   61.18         6.70   10.48                                             Calc. % 61.07 6.64 10.33                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Description 12

R(+)-[1-(2-t-Butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]-methanol

A solution of S(-)-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-1-(4-hydroxymethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-propan-1-one (16.5 g., 42 mmol) and 1 M borane complex in THF (126 ml) in anhydrous THF was refluxed for 16 hours under stirring. The reaction mixture was evaporated to dryness, taken up into diethyl ether and from this solution it was extracted twice with 5% HCl aqueous solution. The solutions were collected, washed with diethyl ether and made alkaline with aqueous solution of 17% Na₂ CO₃. The oily product, which separated, was extracted into ethyl, acetate; this solution was washed to neutral dried and evaporated to dryness. The desired product was obtained as a colourless oil, after purification of the raw material by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH=95/5). (11.2 g.) [a]²⁰ _(D) =+12.02° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously may be prepared: S(-)-1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]-methanol. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-12.02° (C =1% CH₃ OH)

Description 13

R(+)-5-Fluoro-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

Trifluoroacetic anhydride (5.2 g., 24.5 mmol) was added under stirring to a suspension of 5-fluoro-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [J.Med. Chem. (1991), 34, 140] (4 g., 22.3 mmol) in CH₂ Cl₂, cooled at S.C. After 90 minutes, stirring at the same temperature, methanesulfonic acid (2.2 g., 22.3 mmol) following by a solution of S(+)-[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methanol (8.5 g., 22.32 mmol) in CH₂ Cl₂ (5 ml) were rapidly added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 24 hours at room temperature, then evaporated to dryness. The desired product was obtained as a low melting solid after purification of the raw material by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₃ OH/CH₂ Cl₂) NH₄ OH=95/5/0.5). (1.9 g.) [a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.59° (c=1% CH₃ OH).

Description 14

R(+)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester

A solution of S(+)-5-fluoro-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester (0.5 g., 0.92 mmol) and N-chlorosuccinimide (0.19 g. 1.38 mmoli) in CHCl₃ was stirred overnight at room temperature. It was evaporated to dryness and the residue was taken up with CH₃ OH (20 ml) and the resulting solution was stirred for 24 hours. After evaporation to dryness, the residue was dissolved in CH₂ Cl₂ ; this solution was washed once more with 17% Na₂ CO₃ aqueous solution and then with water. After drying and evaporation to dryness, the desired product was obtained as a colourless oil after purification of the residue by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂) CH₃ OH=97/3). (0.18 g) [a]²⁰ _(D) =+5.70° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously the following products were prepared: R(+)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxilic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.99° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-ethoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-4.06° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-5-Fluoro-2-methoxy-1H-indol-3-carboxylic acid [1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl]methyl ester. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-5.46° (c=1% CH₃ OH)

Description 15

S(-)-1-(2-t-Butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propionyl)-4-carbamoyl-piperidine

1,1-carbonyldiimidazole (5.5 g., 33.8 mmol) was added portionwise under stirring to a solution of N-t-Boc-O-Bz-L-serine (10 g., 33.8 mmol) in anhydrous THF (58 ml). After 30 minutes isonipecotamide (4.34 g., 33.8 mmol) was introduced and the resulting suspension was stirred overnight at room temperature, and then evaporated to dryness. The residue was taken up into ethyl acetate and the organic solution was subsequently washed with aqueous solution of 5% HCl, then with H₂ O and with 8% Na₂ CO₃ aqueous solution. After drying and evaporation to dryness, the desired product was obtained as a low melting, white-spongy solid (11.9 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =-10.28° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously the following products may be prepared: R(+)-1-(t-Butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-4-carbamoyl-piperidine. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+10.41° (c=1% CH₃ OH). S(-)-1-(t-Butoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthio-butyryl)-4-carbamoyl-piperidine. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-24.19° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 132-134° C. dec. R(+)-1-(t-Butoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthiobutyryl)-4-carbamoyl-piperidine. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+23.98° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 130-132° C. dec. S(-)-3-t-Butoxycarbonylamino-4-(4-carbamoyl-piperidin-1-yl)-4-oxo-butyric acid methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-65.03° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 121-123° C. dec. S(-)-3-Benzyloxycarbonylamino-4-(4-carbamoyl-piperidin-1-yl)-4-oxo-butyric acid methyl ester [a]²⁰ _(D) =-43.3° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 160° C. dec. S(-)-1-(2-Benzyloxycarbonylamino)-propionyl-4-carboxamide-piperidine [a]²⁰ _(D) =-10.96° (c=1% CH₃ OH) R(+)-1-(2-Benzyloxy carbonylamino)-propionyl-4-carboxamide-piperidine [a]²⁰ _(D) =+11.05° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-4-carboxamide-1-(3-phenyl-2-t-butoxycarbonylamino)-propionyl-piperidine [a]²⁰ _(D) =-1.2° (c=1% CH₃ OH) R(+)-4-carboxamide-1-(3-phenyl-2-t-butoxycarbonylamino)-propionyl-piperidine [a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.35° (c=1% CH₃ OH)

Description 16

R(+)-1-Benzyloxymethyl-2-(4-aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-N-t-butoxycarbonyl-ethylamine)

A solution of 1 M borane complex in tetrahydrofuran (148 ml) was added portionwise in 3 hours to a solution of S(-)-1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxypropionyl)-4-carbamoyl-piperidine (15 g., 37 mmol) in anhydrous THF (100 ml) under refluxing. After cooling and evaporation to dryness, the residue was dissolved into ethyl acetate. It was extracted with citric acid aqueous solution, washed with ethyl acetate, make alkaline with diluted 8% Na₂ CO₃ aqueous solution and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic solution after anhydrification and evaporation, gave a residue from which the desired product as was obtained a clear-thick oil after chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH/NH₄ OH=90/10/1 (5.6 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =+7.21° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously the following products were obtained: S(-)-1-Benzyloxymethyl-2-(4-aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-N-t-butoxycarbonyl ethylamine. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-8.01° (c=1% CH₃ OH). R(+)-1-(4-Aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl-methyl)-3-methyl-thio-N-t-butoxycarbonyl-propylamine. [a]20_(D) =+14.48° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-1° (4-,kminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl-methyl)-3-methyl-thio-N-t-butoxycarbonyl-propylamine. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-14.61° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-3-Benzyloxycarbonylamino-4-(4-aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-butyric acid methyl ester. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-1.90 (c=1% CH₃ OH). S(+)-2-(4-Aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-benzyloxycarbonylamino-1-methyl-ethylamine [a]²⁰ _(D) =+9.05° (c=1% CH₃ OH) R(-)-2-(4-Aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-benxyloxecarbonyl-amino-1-methyl-ethylamine [a]²⁰ _(D) =-9.28° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-4-aminomethyl-1-[(3-phenyl-2-t-butoxycarbonyl-amino)-porpyl]piperidine [a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.43 (c=1% CH₃ OH) R(-)-4-amiminomethyl-(3-phenyl-2-t-butoxycarbonylamino)-propyl]-piperidine [a]²⁰ _(D) =-1.53° (c=1% CH₃ OH)

Description 17

3Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro -benzimidazol-1-chlorocarbonyl.

A solution of 1-ethyla2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazole (5 g., 0.025 ml) and diphosgene (5.6 g., 3.5 ml) in THF was heated at 60° C. in the presence of a small amount of activated carbone under stirring. The solution was kept under stirring at the temperature of 60° C. for 5hours. After filtration and cooling, it was evaporated to dryness obtaining a residue from which, after crystallization with diethyl ether, the desired product was obtained as a white solid (4.4 g.). M.p. 99-105° C. dec. Analogously was prepared: 3-Isopropyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-chlorocarbonyl M.p. 110-112° C. dec.

Description 18

R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]

3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-chlorocarbonyl (2.14 g., 10.8 mmol) was added portionwise, under stirring, to a solution of S(-)-1-benzyloxymethyl-2-(4-aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-N-t-butoxycarbonylethylamine (3.4 g., 9 mmol) in CH₂ Cl₂ (50 ml). After 4 hours under stirring at room temperature the reaction mixture was evaporated to dryness. The residue was dissolved in ethyl acetate, then washed once more with diluted 8% Na₂ CO₃ aqueous solution. After anhydrification and evaporation to dryness, the desired product was purified by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: cyclohexane/ethylacetate 1/1) (3.6 g.); grey solid [a]²⁰ _(D) =5.19° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously the following compounds were prepared: R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-metil]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+9.95° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+10.01° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-2-Oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-10.06° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 65-68° C. R(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxy-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-4.38° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(-)-3-Isopropyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthiobutyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-9.91° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 55° C. dec. S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzoimidazole-1-carboxamide-N-{1[(2-t-butoxycarbonyl-amino-3-phenyl)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl} [a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.63° R(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzomidazole-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-phenyl)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl} [a]²⁰ _(D) =-1.70°

Description 19

S(+)-3-Benzyloxycarbonylamino-4-(4-aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-butyrramide

Gaseous anhydrous NH3 was slowly bubbled for 8 hours into a solution of S(-)-3-benzyloxycarbonylamino-4-(4-aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-butiric acid methyl ester (0.7 g., 1.9 mmol) in CH₃ OH (20 ml). The solution was kept, under stirring, for two days at room temperature, and then evaporated to dryness. The desired product was obtained after chromatographic purification of the residue (silica gel, eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH/NH₄ OH=80/20/2). (320 mg.). Light-brown solid. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.89° (c=1% CH₃ OH)

EXAMPLE 7 S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-benzyloxycarbonylamino-3-carbamoyl-propyl)-piridin-4-yl-methyl]

(Compound 25)

A solution of S(+)-3-benzyloxycarbonylamino-4-(4-aminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-butyramide (0.19 g., 0.54 mmol) and 3-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-chlorocarbonyl (0.13 g., 0.65 mmol) in CH₂ Cl₂ (20 ml) was stirred at room temperature for 4 hours in the presence of triethylamine (0.083 g., 0.70 mmol). The reaction mixture was extracted with a diluted 5% HCl aqueous solution; the acid solution, after further washing with ethyl acetate, was neutralized with aqueous diluted 8% Na₂ CO₃ solution. The oily product, which separated, was extracted into ethyl acetate; from this solution after washing with water, anhydrification and evaporation to dryness, the raw desired product was obtained. This was purified by chromatography (silica gel, eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH/NH₄ OH=95/5/0.5). (0.15 g.) [a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.21° (c=1% in CH OH). M.p. 120° C. dec. (from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=537 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₈ H₃₆ N6O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   61.98         6.79   15.60                                             Calc. % 62.67 6.76 15.67                                                     ______________________________________                                    

R(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[(2-benzyloxy-carbonylamino)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 42)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-18.41° (c=1% in CH₃ OH). M.p. 177-178° C. dec. (as hydrocloride salt) M.S. (C.I.)=494 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₇ H₃₆ Cl N₅ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   60.53         6.83   13.02                                             Calc. % 61.18 6.85 13.21                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[(2-benzyloxy-carbonylamino)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 43)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+17.97° (=1% in CH₃ OH). M.p. 178-180° C. dec. (as hydrocloride salt) M.S. (C.I.)=494 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₇ H₃₆ Cl N₅ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   60.85         6.81   13.04                                             Calc. % 61.18 6.85 13.21                                                     ______________________________________                                    

R(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[(2-benzyloxy-carbonylamino)-3-phenyl-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 44)

[a]²⁰ =-3.35° (c=1% in CH₃ OH 80--CH Cl₃ 20). M.p. 136-138° C. dec. M.S. (C.I.)=570 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₃₃ H₃₉ N₅ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   69.26         6.94   12.16                                             Calc. % 69.57 6.90 12.29                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[2-benzyloxy-carbonylamino)-3-phenyl-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 45)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.24° (c=1% in CH₃ OH 80-CH Cl₃ 20). M.p. 136-138° C. dec. M.S. (C.I.)=570 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₃₃ H₃₉ N₅ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   69.02         6.88   12.15                                             Calc. % 69.57 6.90 12.29                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzoimidazole-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[(2-ethoxy-carbonylamino-3-carbamoyl)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 31)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-1.1° (c=1% in CH₃ OH). M.p. 128-130° C. dec. M.S. (C.I.)=475 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₉ H₃₄ N₆ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   57.90         7.18   17.58                                             Calc. % 58.21 7.22 17.71                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Description 20

R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2 amino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl].

Dry gaseous HCl was bubbled for 20 minutes into solution of S(+)-3-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-t-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl] (2.5 g., 4.41 mmol) in ethyl acetate (25 ml), cooled at 5° C. It was evaporated to dryness and the obtained residue, after crystallization with diethyl ether, gave the desired product as dihydrochloride salt. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+1.97° (c=1% in CH₃ CH). M.p. 85-90° C. dec. Analogously the following products were prepared: S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide[1-(2-amino-4-methythio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+12.88° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride, salt). M.p. 118-120° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) R(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-amino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-12.52° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 112-115° C. dec. (as hydrochoride salt) S(+)-3-Isopropyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-amino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+14.19° (c 1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 160-165° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) S(+)-2-Oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-amino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+15.61° (c=1% in CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 220-225° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzoimidazole-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[(2-amino-3-phenyl)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl} [a]²⁰ _(D) =+6.12° R(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzoimidazole-1-carboxamide-N-{1-[(2-amino-3-phenyl)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl} [a]²⁰ _(D) =-6.01°

EXAMPLE 8 S(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-4-methylthio-butyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 26)

A solution of S(+)-3-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydrobenzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1(2-amino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl) (0.8 g., 1.90 mmol) and phenylisocyanate (0.227 g., 1.9 mmol) in THF (15 ml) was stirred at room temperature for 30 minutes, then evaporated to dryness. The desired product was obtained in a form after purification by chromatography (silica gel, eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH=95/5). (0.65 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =-5.80° (c=1% CH₃ OH) M.p. 195-198° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt). M.S. (C.I.)=539 (m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₈ H₃₉ Cl N₆ O₅ S

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   59.00         6.80   14.66                                             Calc. % 58.47 6.83 14.61                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Analogously the following products may be prepared: R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide{1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-4-methylthio-butyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 27)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-5.49° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 195-200° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.)=+539 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₈ H₃₉ Cl N₆ O₃ S

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   58.20         6.90   14.50                                             Calc. % 58.47 6.83 14.61                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[2-(3-ethyl-ureido)-4-methylthio-butyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compnound 28)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.85° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 189-194° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.)=491 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₄ H₃₉ Cl N₆ O₃ S

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   54.60         7.53   15.66                                             Calc. % 54.69 7.46 15.94                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(-)-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-4-methylthio-butyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 29)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-5.08° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 174-176° C. dec. M.S. (C.I.)=511 m/e (H+H) Analysis C₂₆ H₃₄ N₆ O₃ S

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   61.02         6.80   16.38                                             Calc. % 61.15 6.71 16.46                                                     ______________________________________                                    

R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[3-benzyloxy-2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}. [a]D=+7.6° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 170-180° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[3-benzyloxy-2-(3-ethyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.69° (c=1% CH₃ OH) S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-3-carbamoyl-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compournd 30)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+0.65° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 126-130° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.)=522 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₇ H₃₅ N₇ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   62.03         6.80   18.71                                             Calc. % 62.17 6.76 18.80                                                     ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE 9 S(+)-2-Oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-ethoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]

(Compound 32)

Ethylchloroformate (0.2 g., 1.83 mmol) was added under stirring to a suspension of S(+)-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-1-[(2-amino-4-methylthio-buthyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl] (80.6 g., 1.53 mmol) in CH₂ Cl₂ (10 ml). The reaction mixture was kept overnight, then evaporated to dryness. The residue was taken up into H₂ O (10 ml) and into an aqueous 17% HCl solution (0.5 ml). The obtained precipitate was filtered and dried. After recrystallization from acetone the desired product was obtained as hydrochloride salt. 0.53 g. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+4.98 (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 240° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt) M.S. (C.I.)=464 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₂ H₃₄ C1 N₅ O₄ S

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   52.70         6.91   13.90                                             Calc. % 52.84 6.85 14.01                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Analogously the following products were prepared: S(+)-3-Isopropyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-ethoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]

(Compound 33)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+4.72° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 172-1754 C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from. acetone-diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=506 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₆ H₄₀ Cl N₅ O₄ S

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   55.21         7.51   12.85                                             Calc. % 55.39 7.44 12.92                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-ethoxycarbonylamino-4-methylthio-butyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methl]

(Compound 34)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+6.60° (c 1% CH₃ OH, hydrochloride salt). M.p. 180-185° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=492 mle (M+H) Analysis C₂₄ H₃₈ Cl N₅ O₄ S

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   54.08         7.30   13.20                                             Calc. % 54.58 7.25 13.26                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Description 21

S(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-amino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]

A suspension of R(-)-3-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-butoxycarbonylamino-3-benzyloxypropyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl] (1.5 g. 2.65 mmol) and 10% Pd/C (150 mg) in CH₃ CH₂ OH (20 ml) was kept under shaking in the presence of a 25% solution of HCl in CH₃ CH₂ OH (1.5 ml) in H₂ atmosphere at room pressure. After 48 hours, the catalyst was filtered and the solution was evaporated to dryness; the residue was dissolved in H₂ O and neutralized with a diluted aqueous solution of 8% K CO₃. The semisolid precipitate was extracted into ethyl acetate from which, after evaporation to dryness, the desired product as white and low melting solid was obtained. [a]²⁰ _(D) =-3.3° (c=1% CH₃ OH). Analogously was obtained: R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-amino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+3.5 (c=1% CH₃ OH

EXAMPLE 10 R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-3-hydroxy-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound35)

A suspension of S(+)-3-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-(1-[3-benzyloxy-2-(3-phenyl-ureido)-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl) (0.53 g., 0.85 mmol) and 10% Pd/C (100 mg) in absolute CH₃ CH₂ OH (10 ml) was shaken under H₂ atmosphere at room temperature and pressure for 48 hours. The catalyst was filtered and the solution was evaporated to dryness. The desired product was obtained as ivory solid after crystallization with diethyl ether. 0.36 g. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+5.30° (c=1% CH₃ OH). M.p. 98-101° C. M.S.=495 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₆ H₃₄ N₆ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   63.05         7.00   16.87                                             Calc. % 63.14 6.93 16.99                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Analogously the following compounds may be obtained: R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-{1-[2-(3-ethylureido-3-hydroxy-propyl]-piperidin-4-yl-methyl}

(Compound 36)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+20.50° (c=1% CH₃ OH as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 170-175° C. dec. (as-hydrochloride salt) M.S.=447 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₂ H₃₅ C1 N₆ O

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   54.61         7.39   17.22                                             Calc. % 54.71 7.30 17.40                                                     ______________________________________                                    

R(+)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide-[1-(2-benzyloxycarbonylamino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]

(Compound 37)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =+15.7° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 192-198° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S.=510 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₇ H₃₆ Cl N₅ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   59.17         6.70   11.99                                             Calc. % 59.39 6.65 12.03                                                     ______________________________________                                    

S(-)-3-Ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-1-carboxamide[-1-1° (2-benzyloxycarbonylamino-3-hydroxy-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]

(Compound 38)

[a]²⁰ _(D) =-15.9° (c=1% CH₃ CH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 194-197° C. dec. (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S. (C.I.)=510 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂₇ H₃₆ Cl N₅ O₅

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   59.20         6.70   12.00                                             Calc. % 59.39 6.65 12.03                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Description 22

S(+)-1-(2-Amino-3-phenyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl-carboxamide

A solution of S(+)-1-(2-benzyloxycarbonylamino-3-phenyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl-carboxamide (12.5 g., 0.03 mol) in CH₃ OH (200 ml) was hydrogenated at room temperature and pressure in the presence of 10% Pd/C (1.2 g.) and of gaseous HCl in Et₂ 0 (3.4 ml, 0.03 mol) for 20 hours. The obtained solution, after filtration of catalyst, was evaporated to dryness to give the desired product as hydrochloride salt which was crystallized from Et₂ O (9 g.). [a]²⁰ _(D) =+33.83° (c 1% CH₃ OH).

Description 23

S(+)-1-(2-Ethoxycarbonylamino-3-phenyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl-carboxamid

Ethyl chloroformate (2.67 ml, 0.027 mol) was dropped into solution of S(+)-1-(2-amino-3-phenyl-propionyl)-piperidin-4-yl-carboxamide (7 g., 0.025 mol) and triethylamine (3.5 ml, 0.025 mol) in CH₂ Cl₂ (70 ml), cooled at 0° C. The reaction mixture was kept under stirring a 0° C. for 30 minutes; the solvent was evaporated to dryness, the residue was taken up with 5% HCl and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase was dried and evaporated to give the desired product as white-foamy solid (5.3 g.) [a]²⁰ _(D) =+8.89° (c=1% CH₃ OH)

Description 24

S-2-(4-Ethoxycarbonylaminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-1-benzyethylamine

S(+)-1-(2-ethoxycarboxylamino-3-phenyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl-carboxamide (5g.,0.015 mol) in THF (60 ml) was dropped to a solution of borane complex in THF (57.5 ml, 0.058 mol). The reaction mixture was heated at 60° C. for 6 hours; CH₃ OH (10 ml) was added and the solvent was evaporated to dryness. The residue was taken up with an aqueous 5% HCl solution, made alkaline with aqueous 5% NaHCO₃ solution and extracted with CH₂ Cl₂. The collected organic phases were dried and evaporated to dryness. From the residue, after purification by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH/NH₄ OH=90/10/1) the desired product, sufficiently pure to be used in the next step (1.73 g.), was obtained as a yellow solid.

EXAMPLE 11 S(+)-4-amino-N-l1-[(2-etossicarbonilamino-3-phenyl-propyl)-piperidin-4-yl-methyl]-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzamide

(Compound 39)

1,1,-Carbonyldiimidazole (0.81 g., 5 mmoli) was added to a mixture of 4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-benzoic acid (1.01 g., 5 mmol) in THF (20 ml) and it was stirred for 30 minutes at room temperature. S-2-(4-ethoxycarbonylaminomethyl-piperidin-1-yl)-1-benzyl-ethylamine (1.6 g., 5 mmol) in THF (10 ml) was then dropped and stirred overnight at room temperature. The solvent was evaporated to dryness, the residue was taken up with water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The collected organic phases were dried and evaporated to dryness. From the residue, after purification by chromatography (silica gel; eluent: CH₂ Cl₂ /CH₃ OH=96/4) the desired product, as a white-foamy solid was obtained (0.52 g.). The corresponding hydrochloride salt was obtained introducing dry gaseous HCl in a solution of the base in diethyl ether. [a]²⁰ _(D) =+12.78° (c=1% CH₃ OH, as hydrochloride salt). M.p. 167-169° C. dec (as hydrochloride salt, from diethyl ether) M.S.=504.05 m/e (M+H) Analysis C₂ H₃₆ Cl₂ N₄ O₄

    ______________________________________                                                 C           H      N                                                   ______________________________________                                         Found %   56.55         6.79   10.29                                             Calc. % 57.88 6.73 10.39                                                     ______________________________________                                    

The following examples describe the incorporation of the active ingredient of formula I into the conventional pharmaceutical compositions for use according to the present invention and should not be intended as limiting the invention thereto.

EXAMPLE 12

    ______________________________________                                         Tablets                                                                        ______________________________________                                         Active ingredient of Formula I                                                                      5 mg                                                        lactose 158 mg                                                                 microcrystalline cellulose  35 mg                                              magnesium stearate BP  2 mg                                                    tablet weight 200 mg                                                         ______________________________________                                    

Method of preparation: the active ingredient was passed through a 24 mesh sieve, blended with the lactose, microcrystalline cellulose and magnesium stearate. The resulting mixture was pressed into tables weight 200. mg each. Each tablet contains 5 g of active ingredient.

EXAMPLE 13

    ______________________________________                                         Capsules                                                                       ______________________________________                                         Active ingredient of Formula I                                                                      5 mg                                                        lactose 193 mg                                                                 magnesium stearate BP  2 mg                                                    Fill weight 200 mg                                                           ______________________________________                                    

Method of preparation: the active ingredient was sieved and blended with the excipients. The mixture was flled into hard gelatin capsules using suitable machinery.

EXAMPLE 14

    ______________________________________                                         Syrup                                                                          ______________________________________                                         Active ingredient of Formula I                                                                          5 mg                                                    hydroxypropylmethylcellulose USF 45 mg                                         Buffer                                                                         Flavour                                                                        Colour as required                                                             Preservatives                                                                  Sweetener                                                                      Purified water BP to 10 ml                                                   ______________________________________                                    

Method of preparation: the hydroxypropylmethylcellulose was dispersed in hot water, cooled and then mixed with an aqueous solution containing the active ingredient and the other components of the formulation. The resulting solution was adjusted to volume and mixed. The syrup was clarified by filtration.

EXAMPLE 15

    ______________________________________                                         Ampoules               % w/v                                                   ______________________________________                                         Active ingredient of Formula I                                                                         1                                                        sodium chloride BP as required                                                 water for injection BP to 100                                                ______________________________________                                    

Sodium chloride may be added to adjust the tonicity of the solution and the pH may be adjusted, using acid or alkali, to that of optimum stability and/or facilitate solution of the active ingredient. Alternatively suitable buffer salts may be used. Method of preparation: the solution was prepared, clarified and filled into appropriate size ampoules sealed by fusion of the glass. The injection was sterilised by heating in an autoclave using one of the acceptable cycles. Alternatively the solution may be sterilised by filtration and filled into sterile ampoules under aseptic conditions. The solution may be packed under an inert atmosphere of nitrogen or other suitable gas.

EXAMPLE 16

    ______________________________________                                         Suppositories                                                                  ______________________________________                                         Active ingredient of formula I                                                                        15 mg                                                     semisynthetic glicerides of fatty acid 193 mg                                ______________________________________                                    

Method of preparation: a suspension of the active ingredient was prepared in the molten semisynthetic glicerides of fatty acids and filled, using suitable machinery, into suppository moulds. 

We claim:
 1. A compound of formula (I) ##STR8## wherein A is a group selected fromsubstituted phenyl of structure ##STR9## in which R₁ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy and R₂ is halogen; or bi- or tricyclic heterocycle selected from ##STR10## in which R₃ is hydrogen or halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁ 3 alkyl, R₅ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is hydrogen or a linear or branched C₁₋₆ alkyl; X is oxygen or NH; Y is a group of formula --OR₇ or NHR₇, wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkyl; R is hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, benzyloxy, methylthiomethyl, 3-indolyl, methoxycarbonyl or carbamoyl;or an acid addition salt thereof with physiologically acceptable acids.
 2. The compound according to claim 1, wherein A is the group (c) or (d), R₃ is halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkyl, R₅ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is linear or branched C₁₋₆ alkyl, X is oxygen or NH, Y is OR₇ wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkyl, R is hydrogen, hydroxy, benzyloxy or carbamoyl, or an acid addition salt thereof with physiologically acceptable acids.
 3. The compound according to claim 1 which is a physiologically acceptable acid salt.
 4. The compound according to claim 3, wherein the physiologically acceptable acid salt is made from hydrochloric, hydrobromic, maleic, fumaric or methanesulphonic acid.
 5. A process for the preparation of compounds of formula I' ##STR11## wherein A is a group selected fromsubstituted phenyl of structure ##STR12## in which R₁ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy and R₂ is halogen; or bi- or tricyclic heterocycle selected from ##STR13## in which R₃ is hydrogen or halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkyl, R₅ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is hydrogen or linear or branched C₁₋₆ alkyl; Y is a group of formula --OR₇ or NHR₇, wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkly; R is hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, benzyloxy, methylthiomethyl, 3-indolyl, methoxycarbonyl or carbamoyl;wherein a compound of formula VI ##STR14## wherein A is as defined hereinabove and R' is hydrogen, phenyl, methylthiomethyl or indolyl, is reacted with isocyanates of formula R₇ NCO, where R₇ is as defined hereinabove, in a polar or non-polar solvent at a temperature ranging from 0° C. to the reflux temperature of the solvent.
 6. A process for the preparation of compounds of formula I ##STR15## wherein A is a group selected fromsubstituted phenyl of structure ##STR16## in which R₁ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy and R₂ is halogen; or bi- or tricyclic heterocycle selected from ##STR17## in which R₃ is hydrogen or halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkyl, R₅ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is hydrogen or linear or branched C₁₋₆ alkyl; X is oxygen or NH; Y is a group of formula --OR₇ or NHR₇, wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkly; R is hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, benzyloxy, methylthionmethyl, 3-indolyl, methoxycarbonyl or carbamoyl;wherein a compound of formula (VI) ##STR18## wherein A and R are defined hereinabove is reacted with chloroformate of formula R₇ OCOCl, wherein R₇ is as defined hereinabove, in an inert solvent and in the presence of an acid acceptor at a temperature ranging from 0° C. to the reflux temperature of the solvent.
 7. A process for the preparation of compounds of formula I ##STR19## wherein A is a group selected fromsubstituted phenyl of structure ##STR20## in which R₁ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy and R₂ is halogen; or bi- or tricyclic heterocycle selected from ##STR21## in which R₃ is hydrogen or halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkyl, R₅ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is hydrogen or linear or branched C₁₋₆ alkyl; X is oxygen or NH; Y is a group of formula --OR₇ or NHR₇, wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkly; R is hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, benzyloxy, methylthionmethyl, 3-indolyl, methoxycarbonyl or carbamoyl;wherein a compound of formula (VI) ##STR22## wherein A is as defined hereinabove and R" is hydroxy, which is obtained from its precursor benzyloxy, is reacted with an isocyanate of formula R₇ NCO or a chloroformate of formula R₇ OCOCl, wherein R₇ is as defined above, by reduction process with hydrogen in the presence of pd/C.
 8. A process for the preparation of compounds of formula I ##STR23## wherein A is a group selected fromsubstituted phenyl of structure ##STR24## in which R₁ is C₁₋₃ alkoxy and R₂ is halogen; or bi- or tricyclic heterocycle selected from ##STR25## in which R₃ is hydrogen or halogen, R₄ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkyl, R₅ is hydrogen or C₁₋₃ alkoxy, R₆ is hydrogen or linear or branched C₁₋₆ alkyl; X is oxygen or NH; Y is a group of formula --OR₇ or NHR₇, wherein R₇ is C₁₋₃ alkyl, aryl or aralkly; R is hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, benzyloxy, methylthionmethyl, 3-indolyl, methoxycarbonyl or carbamoyl;wherein a compound of formula (VI) ##STR26## wherein A is as defined hereinabove and R'" is carbamoyl, which is obtained from its precursor alkoxy carbonyl, is reacted with an isocyanate of formula R₇ NCO or a chloroformate of formula R₇ OCOCl, wherein R₇ is as defined hereinafter, by ammonolysis process with gaseous ammonia in a protic or aprotic solvent at a temperature ranging between about 0° C. to about 30° C. 